Oshana Youth Engage in Dialogue on Education and Nation-Building

Oshana Youth Engage in Dialogue on Education and NNation-Building. The Oshana Region hosted a vibrant community engagement this evening, bringing together youth, educators, and students for an interactive session with Hon. Dr. Sanet L. Steenkamp, Minister of Education, Innovation, Youth, Sports, Arts and Culture. The gathering focused on key themes of education, national memory, youth empowerment, and nation-building.

Organised by young people from Oshana, the event provided a unique platform for participants to interact directly with the Minister, gaining insight into her leadership journey and better understanding Government’s vision to create opportunities for youth through education, innovation, sports, arts, and culture.

The session was further honoured by the presence of Vice President H.E. Lucia Witbooi and Hon. Hofni Iipinge, Governor of Oshana Region, underscoring the importance of youth engagement in shaping Namibia’s future.

Minister Steenkamp highlighted the critical role of young people in building a peaceful, inclusive, and prosperous Namibia, stressing that their voices must be central in policy discussions. She encouraged participants to embrace innovation and creativity as tools for empowerment and national development.

Patience Masua, Interim Executive Chairlady of the National Youth Council, echoed these sentiments, noting that youth should be seen not only as beneficiaries of development but as active partners in governance and peacebuilding.

The event encouraged open dialogue, allowing participants to share aspirations, challenges, and recommendations on how the Ministry can fulfill its mandate. Stakeholders agreed that such engagements strengthen trust between government and communities while fostering a culture of collaboration.

By creating space for youth voices, the Oshana engagement reaffirmed Namibia’s commitment to youth empowerment and inclusive nation-building, ensuring that the next generation is equipped to contribute meaningfully to the country’s progress.